The UK is preparing to launch a new offshore wind leasing round in the first half of 2027, as The Crown Estate advances plans for Offshore Wind Leasing Round 6.
The planned round could support around 6GW of new offshore wind capacity, with most sites expected off the North East coast of England. The areas are expected to be mainly suited to fixed-bottom wind, subject to stakeholder engagement and the National Energy System Operator’s strategic plans for energy and electricity networks.
A 6GW leasing round could create up to 10,000 direct jobs and deliver an economic boost of over £12 billion for the UK. The program is intended to support clean energy growth, regional employment, and stronger energy security.
The North East is expected to be central to the next phase of development. The Crown Estate said the specific locations and size of sites will be refined through market and stakeholder engagement, including discussions with nature and offshore wind stakeholders.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks is set to join The Crown Estate, local and regional leaders and business representatives at the Port of Blyth to discuss the region’s offshore wind potential.
The Port of Blyth was among the projects supported through The Crown Estate’s Supply Chain Accelerator program last December. The port received £275,000 as part of a £13 million package supporting 16 projects, with funding aimed at increasing capacity and improving operational efficiency and accessibility for offshore renewables.
Leasing Round 6 will be the first brought to market using The Crown Estate’s Marine Delivery Routemap. The tool uses spatial data from sea-dependent sectors to provide clearer long-term visibility on seabed development and future leasing.
The process is also being aligned with the National Energy System Operator’s Strategic Spatial Energy Plan, helping connect seabed leasing with the UK’s future energy system requirements.
The UK currently has nearly 17GW of offshore wind capacity, with a further 12GW under construction. Further seabed opportunities in the South West, Wales and other regions may support later leasing rounds.
